If my nightstand pistol was a 1911 it would be cocked and locked. That is the way it's designed, and I'm fine with that. But......that's not my nightstand pistol. As I get older I find I don't wake up as sharp as I like and I move a little slower than i used to, my grip isn't as strong and I wear glasses.
My choice is my Beretta 92FS inox with night sights and 15 rounds of ammunition. Loaded, hammer down, just pick it up and pull the trigger. It's never failed to fire and cycle, doesn't care if it's held tighter not. Waking up foggy and stiff there is nothing to remember except front sight. I really like my 1911 but in this situation, for me, something else is better.
As far as children in the house, You might need a lock box for a place to put it in the daytime, but at night it should be available when needed immediately . This is just my opinion and maybe another way to look at the problem.